Harbour Passage Trail
Saint JohnMap
Quick Facts
Difficulty | accessible |
Trail Type | linear |
Distance | 1.9 km one-way |
Estimated Time | 1 hr 30 mins |
Surface Type | pavement |
Elevation Change | 24 metres |
Features | harbour, reversing falls |
Trail Markers | signs |
Scenery Rating | must-see |
Maintenance Rating | well maintained |
Cell Reception | strong |
Dog Friendly | on a leash |
Fees | none |
Description
The trail starts as a wide boardwalk that travels along the front of the Hilton hotel and some aparment buildings. There are beautiful views of the harbour and several interpretive signs about Partridge Island, the Great Fire of 1877, and about the different defenses that were built up over time around the harbour.
The trail then dropped down to an orange, rubberized paved path that travels around the inner harbour. It passes several lookouts, historic sites, and statues. Under the Harbour bridge there is an area with interactive exhibits for kids, including a lifesized porpoise and seal statue.
The trail then crosses a small street (Navy Way) before climbing the hill between Chelsey Drive and the inner Harbour. There are several more intepretive signs and lookouts along this section overlooking the Harbour Bridge and the inner harbour.
The trail ends half way up Chelsey Drive. If you continue along this busy street for less than a kilometer you will come to the lookout at reversing falls. Cross the reversing falls bridge and you will find the visitor center for the reversing falls with several more lookouts. This trail is a great way to experience the City of Saint John and learn about it's history and beauty.
Directions
The best place to park to access the Harbour Passage Trail is at the parking garage at Market Square. If you are coming from the Fredericton/St. Andrews direction on Route 1 cross the Harbour Bridge. Then take exit 122 (second exit). At the lights at Union Street turn right, then at the bottom of the hill turn left onto Smythe Street. You will find the parking garage at the end of the street on the left.
Take the escalators up to Market Square. Across the open area from the New Brunswick Museum take the doors out to Market Wharf. The Harbour Passage Trail starts on the right.
Other Trails in Saint John
Trail Last Hiked: November 20, 2021.
Page Last Updated: November 11, 2017.